Characteristic differences between full-term and premature infants with intermittent exotropia

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pediatric Ophthalmology
• Strabismus Research

Background:

• Intermittent exotropia (IXT) is a common form of strabismus, particularly in preterm infants in Southeast Asia.
• Prevalence and specific risk factors for IXT in South Korean infants require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the characteristics of intermittent exotropia (IXT) between full-term and premature infants.
• To identify associations between gestational age, birth weight, and stereopsis in IXT patients.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective, cross-sectional study of IXT patients with childbirth history.
• Patients categorized into preterm vs. full-term and low birth weight (LBW) vs. normal birth weight (NBW) groups.
• Analysis of stereopsis using the Titmus test, alongside parental heredity, surgical history, and treatment options.

Main Results:

• Univariate analysis revealed a higher frequency of poor stereopsis (≥100s on Titmus test) in preterm (OR=1.352) and LBW infants (OR=1.412) compared to their full-term and NBW counterparts.
• Multivariate regression confirmed that LBW infants had significantly poorer stereopsis (OR=2.032) than NBW infants.
• No significant differences were noted in heredity, surgical history, or treatment options between the groups.

Conclusions:

• Premature infants and those with low birth weight are at higher risk for poorer stereopsis in intermittent exotropia.
• Early stereopsis assessment is crucial for preterm and LBW infants with IXT to guide surgical planning and minimize recurrence risk.